The impact of childhood abuse on women's gynecologic health

Child Abuse and Risk of Gynecologic Disease in a North American Cohort

NIH-funded research Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-10789719

This study looks at how childhood sexual abuse might affect women's health later in life, specifically regarding conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome, and it aims to find ways to help women cope with any related issues like pain or infertility.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10789719 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the long-term effects of childhood sexual abuse on the development of gynecologic conditions such as uterine leiomyomata, endometriosis, and polycystic ovarian syndrome in women. By analyzing data from a large cohort of female participants, the study aims to understand how early life trauma influences these conditions and their associated symptoms, including infertility and chronic pain. The research will also explore resilience factors that may help mitigate these adverse effects, providing insights into potential interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse and are currently facing gynecologic health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced childhood abuse or do not have gynecologic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for women suffering from gynecologic diseases linked to childhood abuse.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a correlation between childhood abuse and gynecologic conditions, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.